Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I stood in my kitchen, the sweet scent of spiced apples filled the air, instantly reminding me of cozy autumn afternoons. This Apple Crumble Cheesecake is a delightful marriage of rich, creamy cheesecake and a crunchy, sugary apple topping that’s perfect for family gatherings or a quiet night in. Not only is this dessert a feast for the senses with its comforting layers, but it also accommodates various ingredient swaps, making it wonderfully versatile. Whether you prefer a buttery crust or a gluten-free option, this recipe invites creativity while guaranteeing a crowd-pleasing finish. So, why not add a touch of warmth to your dessert table this season? What twist will you give this fall favorite? Why is Apple Crumble Cheesecake a Must-Try? Comforting layers of creamy cheesecake and spiced apples create a dessert that feels like a warm hug on chilly days. Versatile ingredient options let you customize according to your preferences. Easy to make, this cheesecake pairs perfectly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat. Plus, it’s an impressive showstopper for gatherings or cozy nights at home! Check out my Churro Cheesecake Bliss for more delicious options that are sure to wow your guests! Apple Crumble Cheesecake Ingredients For the Crust • Digestive or Graham Crackers – The base of the crust that provides a delightful crunch; you can substitute with gluten-free options for dietary needs. • Dark Brown Sugar – Adds richness and moisture; feel free to use light brown sugar if that’s what you have on hand. • Ground Cinnamon – Enhances flavor in the crust; Ceylon cinnamon works wonderfully for a sweeter twist. • Ground Nutmeg – Offers warmth and depth; if you don’t have nutmeg, allspice can be a great substitute. • Butter – Binds the crust together beautifully; for a dairy-free option, you can use coconut oil instead. For the Cheesecake Filling • Cream Cheese – The heart of your cheesecake filling; ensure it’s at room temperature for smooth mixing. • Sour Cream – Adds a lovely tang; you can swap this for full-fat Greek yogurt if you prefer. • Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the filling to perfection; coconut sugar can be used as a lower glycemic alternative. • Cornstarch – Stabilizes your cheesecake; for a thicker consistency, a bit of flour can be substituted. • Large Eggs – Provide structure and creaminess; remember to use room temperature eggs for the best mixing. For the Spiced Apple Topping • Apple – The star of this dessert, diced small; try swapping for pears or peaches if you’re feeling adventurous. • Granulated Sugar – Helps sweeten the apples; a bit of coconut sugar can also work if you want a lower glycemic index. • Ground Cinnamon – Sprinkled over the apple for extra flavor; using a bit more will enhance that sweet spiced aroma. For the Crumble Topping • All-Purpose Flour – Essential for the crumble texture; almond flour can be a gluten-free alternative. • Butter – Creates that delicious crunch in the crumble; substitute with coconut oil if you want a dairy-free option. • Dark Brown Sugar – Adds a hint of sweetness; light brown sugar can serve as a perfect substitute. Get ready to embrace the seasonal flavors in this Apple Crumble Cheesecake, and let your kitchen fill with warmth and richness. Happy baking! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Apple Crumble Cheesecake Step 1: Preheat the Oven Begin by preheating your oven to 160ºC (325ºF). While it warms up, take a 22 cm springform tin and line the bottom with parchment paper, ensuring a smooth release after baking. This preparation is crucial for achieving that perfect Apple Crumble Cheesecake without any sticking! Step 2: Prepare the Cookie Crust In your food processor, combine digestive or graham crackers, dark brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg. Pulse until finely crumbed, then pour in melted butter and blend until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press the crust mixture evenly into the bottom of the springform tin and bake for 10 minutes, until golden brown. Allow it to cool completely. Step 3: Prepare the Apples Peel, core, and dice your apples into small pieces, then place them in a bowl. Toss the diced apples with granulated sugar and a sprinkle of cinnamon until they are evenly coated. Set aside to allow the flavors to mingle while you prepare the other components of the Apple Crumble Cheesecake. Step 4: Make the Crumble Topping In a mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, dark brown sugar, and cold butter cubes. Using your fingers or a pastry cutter, mix until the mixture becomes crumbly with pea-sized pieces. This crumble topping will add that delightful crunch to your cheesecake, so set it aside once fully combined. Step 5: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling In a large mixing bowl, beat the room-temperature cream cheese with an electric mixer until it’s completely smooth. Gradually add granulated sugar, then mix in the sour cream and cornstarch until well incorporated. Add eggs one by one, blending thoroughly after each addition to create a creamy, luscious filling that’s perfect for your Apple Crumble Cheesecake. Step 6: Assemble the Cake Pour the creamy cheesecake batter over the cooled cookie crust in your springform tin. Gently spread it out to ensure an even layer. Evenly sprinkle the prepared apple mixture over the top of the cheesecake filling, followed by a generous layer of crumble topping, creating a beautiful and inviting texture. Step 7: Bake in Water Bath Place the assembled springform pan inside a larger baking dish filled with hot water—this water bath helps prevent cracks as it bakes. Carefully transfer to the oven and bake for 1 hour and 20-30 minutes until the edges are set and the center has a slight wobble. The rich aroma of the Apple Crumble Cheesecake will fill your kitchen. Step 8: Cooling Once baked, turn off the oven, slightly crack open the door, and let the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour. This gradual cooling helps maintain its structure. Afterward, let it cool at room temperature for another hour before transferring it to the refrigerator. Chill for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight, to fully develop the flavors and textures. Variations & Substitutions for Apple Crumble Cheesecake Feel free to give your Apple Crumble Cheesecake a personalized twist that suits your taste buds! Gluten-Free Crust: Swap graham crackers with gluten-free digestive biscuits or almond flour for a delightful gluten-free version. Dairy-Free Option: Replace butter with coconut oil and cream cheese with cashew cream for a dairy-free treat. Add Chocolate: Drizzle melted chocolate on top of the cheesecake before serving for a rich, decadent finish. Fruit Flavor Swap: Use diced pears or fresh strawberries instead of apples for a refreshing alternative. Both offer a sweet juice that complements any cheesecake beautifully. Spiced Up Flavors: Introduce cardamom or a pinch of ginger to your spiced apple layer for an exciting flavor punch. Nutty Crunch: Incorporate chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans into the crumble topping for added texture and crunch. Caramel Drizzle: A drizzle of caramel sauce on top before serving creates an irresistibly sweet touch that your guests will love. Vegan Version: To make this dessert vegan, substitute the eggs with flax eggs and use vegan cream cheese and yogurt. Whatever variation you choose, remember to embrace the joy of baking and make this recipe uniquely yours. If you’re looking for more inspiration, try my Churro Cheesecake Bliss or the indulgent Cream Oreo Cheesecake. Happy baking! What to Serve with Apple Crumble Cheesecake As you prepare to indulge in this decadent dessert, consider enhancing the experience with delightful accompaniments that elevate your meal. Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy, sweet flavor of vanilla ice cream contrasts beautifully with the rich cheesecake, creating a dreamy combination. Scoop a generous portion on the side for a luscious treat. Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel over each slice adds a luxurious touch, enhancing the apple flavors and offering a sweet, gooey finish that’s irresistible. Hot Spiced Apple Cider: Serve alongside a steaming mug of spiced apple cider to bring out the fall flavors in the cheesecake. The warmth of the spices complements the dessert’s comforting qualities perfectly. Whipped Cream: Light and airy, freshly whipped cream adds a delightful creaminess that balances the rich cheesecake. A dollop on top takes your indulgence to the next level. Cinnamon Sugar Pecan Crumble: Sprinkle this crunchy topping over each slice for a nutty crunch that harmonizes wonderfully with your creamy cheesecake and spiced apples. Coffee: A freshly brewed cup of coffee, whether black or with cream, enhances the dessert’s profile and adds a cozy, comforting element to your gathering. Apple Crisp Bars: For those wanting more apple goodness, serve these sweet apple bars as additional treats on the side, echoing the flavors of your Apple Crumble Cheesecake. Poached Pears: Lightly poached pears in a spiced syrup add a touch of elegance and fresh fruitiness that complements the cheesecake perfectly. Every bite deserves a delicious companion, and these suggestions ensure your Apple Crumble Cheesecake is the centerpiece of a heartwarming feast! Make Ahead Options These delicious Apple Crumble Cheesecake can be prepped up to 24 hours in advance, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions! Begin by preparing the crust, apple filling, and crumble topping. You can refrigerate the crust and crumble topping separately in airtight containers to maintain their texture. For the apple filling, toss the diced apples with sugar and spices, and store them in a covered bowl. When you’re ready to bake, simply assemble the cheesecake by layering the filling, apple mixture, and crumble topping before placing it in the oven. This way, you’ll enjoy the same restaurant-quality results with minimal effort! Expert Tips for Apple Crumble Cheesecake Soften Cream Cheese: Make sure your cream cheese is fully softened to achieve a velvety smooth filling. Cold cream cheese can cause lumps in your cheesecake. Use a Water Bath: Baking your cheesecake in a water bath prevents cracks by maintaining a gentle temperature. It’s key for achieving that perfect Apple Crumble Cheesecake texture. Check for Wobble: When done, the center of your cheesecake should have a slight wobble. This indicates it’s still creamy while ensuring it won’t be undercooked. Cool Gradually: After baking, let your cheesecake cool in the oven with the door ajar. This gradual temperature change helps minimize cracking. Refrigerate Overnight: For the best flavor and texture, refrigerate your cheesecake for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight, before serving. The flavors develop beautifully! How to Store and Freeze Apple Crumble Cheesecake Fridge: Store your Apple Crumble Cheesecake covered in plastic wrap or in an airtight container for up to 5 days. This will keep it fresh and delicious! Freezer: To freeze, wrap the cheesecake tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored for up to 3 months. Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw the cheesecake in the fridge overnight. Avoid thawing at room temperature to maintain its creamy texture. Reheating: If you prefer your cheesecake slightly warm, gently reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. Enjoy! Apple Crumble Cheesecake Recipe FAQs What kind of apples should I use for the apple topping? I recommend using a mix of sweet and tart apples like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp. They hold their shape well and bring together the perfect balance of flavor. If you’re looking for something different, pears or peaches also make wonderful substitutes! How should I store leftovers from my Apple Crumble Cheesecake? Absolutely! Store your cheesecake covered in plastic wrap or in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. This keeps it fresh and delicious for you to enjoy throughout the week. Can I freeze my Apple Crumble Cheesecake? Yes, you can! To freeze, first wrap your cheesecake tightly in plastic wrap, then cover it with aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Properly stored, it can last up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw it in the fridge overnight for the best texture. What can I do if my cheesecake cracks while baking? Very! If you notice cracks forming, don’t fret. Ensure you are using a water bath while baking, as this helps regulate the temperature. If it happens anyway, just cover with a crumble topping or some whipped cream—your guests will still love it! Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of? For those with dietary restrictions, you can easily adapt this Apple Crumble Cheesecake recipe. Use gluten-free crackers for the crust and coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free version. If you have allergies, always check the labels on your ingredients to ensure they meet your needs! How long should I let my cheesecake cool before serving? To achieve the best results, allow your cheesecake to cool gradually in the oven with the door ajar for about 1 hour after baking. Then, let it cool at room temperature for another hour before refrigerating for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight. This chilling time is key for the flavors to meld beautifully! Irresistible Apple Crumble Cheesecake for Cozy Fall Days This Apple Crumble Cheesecake is a delightful blend of creamy cheesecake and spiced apples, perfect for fall gatherings. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 40 minutes minsCook Time 1 hour hr 20 minutes minsCooling Time 7 hours hrsTotal Time 9 hours hrs Servings: 8 slicesCourse: DessertCuisine: AmericanCalories: 450 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Crust200 grams Digestive or Graham Crackers Can substitute with gluten-free options.100 grams Dark Brown Sugar Light brown sugar can be used.1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon Ceylon cinnamon for a sweeter twist.0.5 teaspoon Ground Nutmeg Allspice can substitute.100 grams Butter Coconut oil for dairy-free option.For the Cheesecake Filling600 grams Cream Cheese At room temperature.200 grams Sour Cream Full-fat Greek yogurt can be swapped.150 grams Granulated Sugar Coconut sugar as a lower glycemic alternative.2 tablespoons Cornstarch A bit of flour can be substituted for thickness.3 large Large Eggs Use room temperature eggs.For the Spiced Apple Topping4 medium Apple Diced small.50 grams Granulated Sugar Coconut sugar can work.1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon More for enhanced aroma.For the Crumble Topping150 grams All-Purpose Flour Almond flour can be gluten-free.100 grams Butter Coconut oil for dairy-free option.100 grams Dark Brown Sugar Light brown sugar can substitute. Equipment Springform panfood processorMixing bowls Method Step-by-Step InstructionsPreheat your oven to 160ºC (325ºF) and line the bottom of a 22 cm springform tin with parchment paper.Combine digestive or graham crackers, dark brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg in a food processor. Pulse until finely crumbed, then blend with melted butter. Press into the springform tin and bake for 10 minutes. Cool completely.Peel, core, and dice apples. Toss with granulated sugar and cinnamon, then set aside.Mix all-purpose flour, dark brown sugar, and cold butter in a bowl until crumbly. Set aside.Beat cream cheese until smooth, gradually adding sugar, sour cream, and cornstarch. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well.Pour the cheesecake batter over the cooled crust. Spread the apple mixture over the batter, then sprinkle with crumble topping.Place the springform pan in a larger dish with hot water and bake for 1 hour and 20-30 minutes until edges are set.Let the cheesecake cool inside the oven for 1 hour, then cool at room temperature for an additional hour. Refrigerate for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight. Nutrition Serving: 1sliceCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 7gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 250mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 2gSugar: 30gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 8mgIron: 4mg NotesFor best results, ensure cream cheese is softened and use a water bath to prevent cracks during baking. Refrigerate overnight for optimal flavor. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
